Professor Bearing’s moment of clarity is not grand or epic. Indeed, it is a simple moment painted with touches of childhood. In this scene, which takes place toward the end of the film, Professor Ashford pays Professor Bearing an unsolicited visit. A light, peaceful lullaby-like melody plays in the background. Shortly after the arrival of her old mentor, Professor Bearing quite literally takes a breath, pauses, and transitions from her guarded, isolated state to one where she is fully exposed. This moment occurs when Professor Bearing admits, after a pause and then a long exhalation, “I feel so bad” and lets roll a single tear. For the remainder of the scene she is completely exposed in her vulnerability. This scene is free of wit and displays of intelligence. Instead, Professor Bearing whimpers, and allows Professor Ashford to comfort her. Thinking she will find solace, as always, in the classics, Professor Ashford offers to recite one of Donne’s sonnets. However, now that Professor Bearing is vulnerable, without any pretenses or façade to maintain, she refuses the offer and instead welcomes Professor Ashford’s reading of the children’s book The Runaway Bunny.